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STAR WATCH: 2012 Star-Banner offensive player of the year quarterback Adam Robles returns after throwing for more than 2,000 yards and 22 TDs last year. He has two gifted targets in WR Natrell Jamerson and TE/WR Kano Dillon, both D-I recruits, while athletic slasher Rashard Sweet steps in as the lead running threat. Hard-hitting veteran LB Deltron Modican anchors the defense and could also factor into the rushing offense.

NEW FACES: Mike Mitchell (5-9, 170) and Donte Lerma (5-9, 180) each have a chance to contribute in both the secondary as well as on offense in the skill positions.

QUOTABLE: “We lost a lot of really good, key players, but we have six starters coming back on offense and six on defense. You're talking about 12 really good kids who can contribute a lot.” — Castaneda.

BEST CASE: The Knights' group of offensive weapons is perhaps their finest since Castaneda took over the program. If the rebuilt line steps up to the level last year's group performed at, a high-powered offense and hard-hitting defense is capable of capturing a district title and entering the state championship discussion in Class 6A.

WORST CASE: Vanguard's overall numbers are down, leaving the Knights particularly vulnerable if injuries strike. Vanguard will need to be healthy to fend off emerging rivals Citrus and Lake Weir in an improving district, then Gainesville looms as a potential season-ender early in the playoffs.

PREDICTION: Vanguard has a tough schedule that includes a trip to Bolles and a home date with 3A contender Trinity Christian, not to mention annual clashes with Gainesville and North Marion. As long as the Knights' health holds up, they'll flip the script on Gainesville, grab the 6A-5 crown and be a force to contend with in the playoffs.

<p><b>COACH:</b> Alex Castaneda, fifth year, 30-18</p><p><b>2012 RECORD:</b> 7-5, lost in regional semifinals</p><p><b>DISTRICT:</b> 6A-5</p><p><b>RETURNING STARTERS:</b> 6 offense, 6 defense</p><p><b>STAR WATCH:</b> 2012 Star-Banner offensive player of the year quarterback Adam Robles returns after throwing for more than 2,000 yards and 22 TDs last year. He has two gifted targets in WR Natrell Jamerson and TE/WR Kano Dillon, both D-I recruits, while athletic slasher Rashard Sweet steps in as the lead running threat. Hard-hitting veteran LB Deltron Modican anchors the defense and could also factor into the rushing offense. </p><p><b>NEW FACES:</b> Mike Mitchell (5-9, 170) and Donte Lerma (5-9, 180) each have a chance to contribute in both the secondary as well as on offense in the skill positions.</p><p><b>QUOTABLE:</b> “We lost a lot of really good, key players, but we have six starters coming back on offense and six on defense. You're talking about 12 really good kids who can contribute a lot.” — Castaneda.</p><p><b>BEST CASE:</b> The Knights' group of offensive weapons is perhaps their finest since Castaneda took over the program. If the rebuilt line steps up to the level last year's group performed at, a high-powered offense and hard-hitting defense is capable of capturing a district title and entering the state championship discussion in Class 6A.</p><p><b>WORST CASE:</b> Vanguard's overall numbers are down, leaving the Knights particularly vulnerable if injuries strike. Vanguard will need to be healthy to fend off emerging rivals Citrus and Lake Weir in an improving district, then Gainesville looms as a potential season-ender early in the playoffs.</p><p><b>PREDICTION:</b> Vanguard has a tough schedule that includes a trip to Bolles and a home date with 3A contender Trinity Christian, not to mention annual clashes with Gainesville and North Marion. As long as the Knights' health holds up, they'll flip the script on Gainesville, grab the 6A-5 crown and be a force to contend with in the playoffs.</p>